Lufthansa Technik Philippines has conducted the twelve-year check on a Lufthansa Airlines Airbus A380, registered as D-AIMC, undergoing intensive inspections and component replacements during the layover in Manila.
Lufthansa Technik Philippines (LTP), in a significant milestone, has successfully conducted the twelve-year check on an Airbus A380, marking a first in the facility’s history. The extensive maintenance work, completed on the world’s largest passenger aircraft, supports its return to active service in Lufthansa Airlines’ fleet. The aircraft, registered as D-AIMC, underwent intensive inspections and component replacements during the layover in Manila.
The twelve-year check on the Airbus A380 involves a meticulous inspection of the aircraft’s structure, surpassing the depth of three- or six-year checks. Over 500 passenger seats and various components from both passenger decks were removed and later reinstalled to facilitate access for thorough inspections. Major components were also replaced or temporarily dismantled as part of this comprehensive check.
“The return of the A380 to the fleets of many airlines has also boosted demand for maintenance services enormously. We are benefiting quite well from this with our A380 expertise here in Manila, that we recently even expanded with the third overhaul line,” said Elmar Lutter, Chief Executive Officer, Lufthansa Technik Philippines. “In view of the delays in the delivery of numerous new wide-body aircraft, I am certain that services for the A380 will remain an integral part of our portfolio for years to come,” he further added.
One of the critical milestones in the twelve-year check is the complete replacement of the landing gear, consisting of five individual gear assemblies with a total of 22 wheels. Lufthansa Technik Landing Gear Services (LTLGS) in London overhauls the main landing gear components, ensuring they meet rigorous safety standards for continued service.
All four Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines on the A380 were temporarily removed during the check to allow for detailed structural inspections of the wings and engine mounts. The massive engines, each with a diameter of approximately three meters and a dry weight of over six metric tons, underwent minor inspections in alignment with their remaining service life.
In addition to the scheduled work packages, the LTP team addressed modifications, including implementing airworthiness directives issued by Airbus during the aircraft’s prolonged inactivity.
During peak times, over 100 aircraft mechanics worked on D-AIMC as part of the twelve-year check. Despite accumulating more than 42,000 flying hours and over 4,300 flight cycles, the aircraft is now prepared for its return to active scheduled service with Lufthansa Airlines.
Demand for overhauls, known as base maintenance, for the A380 has surged due to airlines returning the aircraft to service amid increased passenger travel demand post-pandemic. LTP, with its expertise in A380 maintenance, has experienced high demand, and despite opening a third overhaul line for the type, the company’s capacities are expected to be fully utilized for years to come.
The successful completion of the twelve-year check on the Airbus A380 at Lufthansa Technik Philippines showcases the facility’s expertise and capabilities in handling complex maintenance tasks for the world’s largest passenger aircraft. As airlines reintroduce the A380 into service to meet heightened travel demand, LTP’s proficiency in conducting thorough inspections and overhauls positions it as a key player in ensuring the continued airworthiness of these iconic aircraft. The A380’s return to the skies underscores the resilience and adaptability of the aviation industry as it navigates the evolving landscape of air travel.
Question- Which airline does the Airbus A380, registered as D-AIMC, belong to?
Answer- Lufthansa Airlines.
Question- Where was the twelve-year check on the Airbus A380 conducted?
Answer- Lufthansa Technik Philippines in Manila.
Question- What specific component of the Airbus A380’s landing gear is completely replaced during the twelve-year check?
Answer- The main landing gear, consisting of five individual gear assemblies with a total of 22 wheels.
Note– MRO Business Today is the Principal Media Partner of the 5th MRO SOUTH ASIA SUMMIT 2024 co-located with the MRO XPO INDIA & AIRCRAFT INTERIORS INDIA 2024 to be held on 27,28 & 29 February 2024 at the Le Méridien New Delhi, India.
